More options please.

Often we’re in a situtaion during a pitch or with current clients when they specifically request to see more than one option for a layout or creative solution.

Sometimes, when we actually do have more than one approach that we think could suit the problem at hand, developing more than one option makes sense. But more often than not, clients request more than one option to help them decide what they want, because they don’t actually know what they are looking for!

Here is what designer Paul Rand said to Steve Jobs when the latter asked for ‘a few options’ for the logo design of one of his companies:
“I (Steve Jobs) asked him if he would come up with a few options. And he (Paul Rand) said, ‘No, I will solve your problem for you, and you will pay me. And you don’t have to use the solution — if you want options, go talk to other people. But I’ll solve your problem for you the best way I know how, and you use it or not, that’s up to you — you’re the client — but you pay me.”

Steve Jobs left the world with more than just beautifully simple technology. His approach to business (and life) was the biggest inspiration.

Intelligent clients understand that once they’ve selected the right agency for the job, briefed them well, outlined their expectations and had an open dialogue, they should let the agency do their job – and expect nothing less than the best solution for their problem.